Help Mitch Corey Beat Cancer

In February, 2020 Mitch Corey had severe stomach pain that he attributed to his existing diverticulitis condition. His gastroenterologist set up a CT scan, which showed that his appendix had burst, filling the area where his appendix used to be with infection.  He was hospitalized for four days, IV’s were put into each hand, and multiple bags of antibiotics and other drugs were administered over the next four days to fight the infection. An abdominal drain was also put in place to pull out the infection from that cavity. The abdominal drain is still producing many weeks later as of April, 2020

The CT scan also showed four masses – one in his chest and three in his abdomen. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, but has yet to find out the point of origin, which determines the most effective course of treatment. Mitch and his family were extremely shocked and devastated by this news. The pathology labs that determine the point of origin are extremely backed up due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Many of his appointments and test results are delayed as a result of COVID-19. Additionally, when he goes to appointments, Mitch’s wife, Pam, can’t accompany him in the appointment. Instead she has to wait in the car and listen to the appointment via cell phone to prevent exposure and the possible spread of COVID-19 to Mitch, her family, and all the patients in the healthcare facility.

At this point, after hospitalization, 6 CT scans (and more to follow to check progress), abdominal drain input procedure (and future procedure to remove it), endoscopy, bone scan, radiation treatments, future chemotherapy, as well as other future medical treatments have come at a tremendous financial cost.  

As a result of Mitch’s cancer diagnosis, he is no longer able to work. Pam works for a non-profit and due to the COVID-19 pandemic is able to work from home. However, her hours have been reduced from 40 hours/week to 20 hours/week, which may not even cover the family health insurance premiums. The major decrease in family income and continually rising medical expenses has come at an extremely emotional and stressful time in their lives.

COVID-19 has complicated the diagnosis as it has prevented Mitch from doing the things he loves most in life – seeing people not currently living with him:  his oldest son, Adam and his fiancée Courtney, playing with his grandchildren (Levi and Addison), and visiting his parents (Betty and Gene), brothers (Jay, Michael, and Greg), and his close friends. In between treatments, Mitch spends his time at home with his wife, Pam, and son, Evan.

If you feel inspired to support Mitch during his health crisis, please consider sharing this GoFundMe page with your friends on Facebook, email, or other platforms, and consider donating towards his medical support cause. Any support will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your care and compassion. God bless you all.